Malami’s detention is not a fresh arrest – EFCC source

From Sola Ojo, Abuja

A credible source within the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has clarified the circumstances surrounding the detention of former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami, stating it is not a new arrest but part of an ongoing investigative process.

Speaking exclusively to our correspondent on Tuesday night, the EFCC source explained that Malami has been appearing before investigators for months and had previously been granted administrative bail.

“His detention is not a new arrest. He has come around before and got administrative bail. He has been coming since.

“However, when he came on Monday, 8 December, due to the volume of documents we are verifying, we did not allow him to go.

“We have the right to detain him as much as possible until we are satisfied with the investigation,” the source added.

According to the source, the Commission is currently scrutinising extensive documents related to the allegations under investigation, and Malami’s continued stay in custody is necessary to avoid delays or interference with the verification process.

The source further advised the public not to misinterpret the development as a fresh arrest, noting that the former AGF’s cooperation is part of an ongoing engagement.

While details of the allegations have not been formally disclosed, insider sources indicate they involve high-level financial transactions and decisions taken during Malami’s tenure as the nation’s chief law officer under the late former President Muhammadu Buhari between 2015 and 2023.